What Are The Symptoms Of Gallstones?

Bile is required for the proper digestion of food in the small intestine. Bile is produced in an individual's gallbladder and stored there until it is needed in the small intestine. When food hits the small intestine, a hormone is released that causes bile to move from the gallbladder to the small intestine. Gallstones are caused by an imbalance of substances in an individual's bile, where they exceed their solubility threshold and begin to particulate and form into crystals. Gallstones are diagnosed with tests such as a physical examination, ultrasound, abdominal CT scan, gallbladder radionuclide scan, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, and blood tests. Treatment for gallstones may include surgery, medication to dissolve the stones, shock wave lithotripsy, diet changes, and weight loss.